what we learned from christchurch taking the risk out ... - PlaceMakers

FEATURESSITE SAFEKeeping the public safeConstruction sites can pose a variety of hazards to the public, somake sure you take the necessary precautions to keep them safeUnder The Health and Safetyin Employment Act 1992(HSE) construction companiesmust take all practicable steps toensure safety for not only theiremployees but the public as well,including children and other localresidents attracted to constructionactivities.Construction companies and workersall have a part to play in ensuringthe public are not endangered byconstruction work.The most common potentialhazards on a site that can affectthe public include:OBJECTS / EQUIPMENT AT HEIGHTObjects including concrete debris,chisels, bolts, timber off-cuts, scaffoldplanks and steel beams have thepotential to fall from buildings,suspended scaffolding and workplatforms. Bundles and trays of buildingmaterials swung above people’s headsalso provide a hazard for the public.THOROUGHFARE / WALKWAYSConstruction sites that extend outinto public access ways and forcepedestrians to walk on the roadwayor negotiate scaffolding can bevery dangerous. Vehicles crossingfootpaths or emerging suddenly fromenclosed sites are hazardous also.UNEVEN SURFACESBroken and uneven footpaths, holesnot filled in, surfaces covered inmud and water, or open excavationswhere people can fall are a majorhazard for the public.VISITORS ON SITEPeople visiting the site are generally muchless aware of hazards and the necessaryprecautions on construction sites.Ensure that proper signs are used to make the public aware of hazards that may existConstruction companies and workers allhave a part to play in ensuring the public arenot endangered by construction work20www.sitesafe.org.nz